Son Ye-jin, long adored as Korea’s “first love” and the undisputed queen of melodrama, is stepping into the radiant third act of her life — this time as a wise wife, loving mother, and actress returning to the screen after a meaningful hiatus.
The 43-year-old actress stars in No Other Choice (directed by Park Chan-wook), a crime-thriller black comedy adapted from Donald E. Westlake’s 1997 novel The Ax. Son takes on the role of Lee Mi-ri, the resilient wife of Mansoo (played by Lee Byung-hun), a man whose seemingly stable life unravels after sudden unemployment, pushing him into a desperate fight to protect his family and their home.
The film has already garnered international acclaim, premiering at the Venice International Film Festival and later screening at TIFF and opening the 30th Busan International Film Festival. For Son, No Other Choice marks not only her first film in seven years but also her return after marriage and motherhood.
In her interview, Son revealed that she initially hesitated, as the character of Mi-ri seemed understated compared to the flashier roles she had taken in the past. Yet the chance to work with Park Chan-wook and co-star Lee Byung-hun convinced her. She added that the character’s quiet strength resonated deeply with her own growth as both a woman and a mother.
Son also shared candid reflections on balancing her career and family life. After dedicating over two years exclusively to raising her son, she described her first day back on set as both liberating and emotional. “It felt like rediscovering myself,” she said. “Even the long car rides to set felt refreshing because I finally had time to breathe. Work doesn’t just exhaust me anymore — it energizes me.”
At the VIP premiere, Son’s husband, fellow actor Hyun Bin, drew attention for supporting her comeback. Son laughed as she admitted she takes his feedback with caution, noting, “Of course, family will always say good things. I’m more curious about how the general audience will react.”
When asked about concerns over a “career gap,” Son expressed optimism. She acknowledged that while some may question her ability to lead romantic dramas post-marriage and motherhood, she views it as an opportunity. “I don’t believe my acting career will be cut off. With age and experience, I can explore more nuanced and powerful roles. Who knows? Maybe one day I’ll take on a drama like Secret Love Affair.”
Beyond acting, Son reflected on how motherhood has reshaped her. “Everything has changed since having a child. My priorities, my time, my entire world,” she said, adding that being a working mom has made her appreciate the efforts of mothers everywhere. While she playfully admitted she dreams of having three children, she also acknowledged the challenges of balancing family and career.
As she reclaims her place in cinema with No Other Choice, Son Ye-jin embodies resilience, authenticity, and evolution — proving that her most powerful stories, both on and off screen, are just beginning.
Sources: Daum
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